On May 14th, the City of Nanaimo was recognized for activities that improved ground disturbance, safe excavation techniques and best practice at or around underground infrastructure.

Cathy Cook (l), BCMSA’s Executive Director, and Dr. Dave Baspaly (r), Executive Director of the BC Common Ground Alliance, presented Mayor John Ruttan (c) with the Award.

Read the first edition of the bcWorks Newsletter on-line.

BRITISH COLUMBIA PARKS AND PUBLIC WORKS GROUP

The bcPPWG is committed to the creation of one centralized network which is accessible to the public and to all Parks and Public Works employees across British Columbia. PPWG is dedicated to helping Parks and Public Works employees build skill sets that are transferable, develop cross training programs, and provide opportunities for succession and career planning within the Parks and Public Works sector.

WorkSafeBC has now issued a Guideline for their Officers,  for variances to the Workers Compensation Act requirement for a Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee in any workplace with 20 or more workers.   This Guideline gives WorkSafe’s Occupational Safety Officers the ability to issue an Inspection Report/Order, acknowledging the variance.  We’ll create a process diagram and template for municipalities to use and post it here!

WorkSafeBC and the BCAA Road Safety Foundation have created a new website aimed at helping employers reduce road-related crashes and injuries.  The BC Municipal Safety Association participated in this initiative, including the “Preferred Practices” document.

http://www.roadsafetyatwork.ca/